Subject
French fiction -- Translations into German Books
Best books
J.-K. (Joris-Karl) Huysmans
Gegen den Strich
"Gegen den Strich" by J.-K. Huysmans is a novel published in 1884. The narrative follows Jean des Esseintes, an eccentric aristocrat who retreats from bourgeois society into self-imposed isolation. In his countryside refuge, he cultivates an elaborate world of aesthetic experiences—collecting art, experimenting with perfumes, and surrounding himself with exotic objects. The essentially plotless novel catalogs his neurotic tastes and hyperaesthetic pursuits while recalling his decadent Parisian past. Breaking from Naturalism, it became the defining work of Decadent literature and inspired Oscar Wilde's "The Picture of Dorian Gray."
Gustave Flaubert
Bouvard und Pécuchet: Roman aus dem Nachlass
"Bouvard und Pécuchet: Roman aus dem Nachlass" by Gustave Flaubert is an unfinished satirical novel published in 1881. Two Parisian copy-clerks become friends and move to the French countryside after one inherits a fortune. They embark on an ambitious quest for knowledge, attempting to master nearly every field of study—from agriculture to philosophy. Each endeavor ends in failure, exposing the limitations of human understanding. Their intellectual misadventures strain relations with suspicious villagers, leading toward an unexpected conclusion about the pursuit of wisdom.
René Arcos
Das Gemeinsame
"Das Gemeinsame" by René Arcos is a fictional work written in the early 20th century. The narrative seems to explore themes of connection and the fleeting nature of human encounters, primarily focusing on a young man reflecting on the transient moments of life while he rides on a subway train late at night. In the opening, he observes a mysterious young woman, and their unspoken exchange stirs profound emotions within him, highlighting his contemplation of love, existence, and the inevitability of separation. The beginning of the novel sets a contemplative and introspective tone as the young man rides alone on a subway train. He is absorbed in his thoughts, noting the rain-soaked world outside, and gradually becomes enchanted by the presence of a beautiful woman across from him. As they exchange glances, he is struck by the awareness of their brief encounter and the deep feelings it incites, reflecting on his existential condition and the ephemeral nature of life. The atmosphere is charged with unspoken feelings, suggesting a connection that, while significant, is all too fleeting, as he wrestles with the inevitability of their impending separation.
Francis Jammes
Das Paradies: Geschichten und Betrachtungen
"Das Paradies: Geschichten und Betrachtungen" by Francis Jammes is a collection of poetic narratives and reflections likely written in the early 20th century. The work delves into themes of nature, spirituality, and the human experience, capturing moments of beauty and tenderness in everyday life and the afterlife. In the opening segment, the story follows a young poet who, upon dying at the age of eighteen, finds himself in a serene paradise filled with familial love, joyful reunions, and a deep sense of fulfillment. The beginning of the collection intimately portrays the moment of the protagonist's death. Surrounded by friends and family, he transitions peacefully into heaven, where he is greeted by his deceased parents and the beloved dog from his life on earth. The poet experiences an overwhelming sense of joy as he engages with the divine, relishing in the idyllic surroundings reminiscent of his earthly home, complete with nurturing gardens and familiar faces. As he discovers the paradise is a reflection of his past, the narrative explores the themes of love and duty toward family and the profound sense of belonging that transcends life and death.
Stendhal
Die Äbtissin von Castro
"Die Äbtissin von Castro" by Stendhal is a historical novella written during the early 19th century. The story explores themes of love and rivalry in the context of Roman nobility, focusing on the tumultuous relationship between the beautiful and devout Prinzessin Campobasso and her equally captivating cousin, Gräfin Orsini, set against the backdrop of their tangled love lives and societal pressures. At the start of the novella, we are introduced to the vibrant atmosphere of Rome in 1726, where the powerful and ornate life of the papal court plays a significant role. The narrative centers around the rivalry between Prinzessin Campobasso and Gräfin Orsini, both of whom vie for love and status, each showcasing their distinct personalities. The Campobasso, in the midst of a passionate affair with the young Chevalier von Sénecé, finds herself engulfed in the emotional turmoil of love and jealousy, especially when sensing Sénecé's lingering interest in her cousin Orsini. As the plot unfolds, the complexities of love, duty, and the consequences of rivalry take center stage, setting the stage for the ensuing drama.
Gérard de Nerval
Aurelia, oder, Der Traum und das Leben
"Aurelia, oder, Der Traum und das Leben" by Gérard de Nerval is a narrative written in 1855. At the end of his life, Nerval penned this unfinished work to free himself from his emotions and describe his mental state during episodes of madness. The story follows a man devastated by losing a woman he had "deified," convinced he will soon die. Blending narrative, speech, and letter forms, the work follows the logic of dreams as the protagonist recounts and reflects on his visions. Nerval was found dead with the manuscript in his pocket.
Stendhal
Römerinnen: Zwei Novellen
"Römerinnen: Zwei Novellen" by Stendhal is a collection of novellas written in the early 19th century. This work intricately explores themes of love, betrayal, and the complex social fabric of Rome during its vibrant historical backdrop. The stories focus on strong female characters navigating their desires and societal expectations in a world filled with intrigue. The opening of the first novella, "Vanina Vanini," introduces us to a grand ball in Rome, hosted by the wealthy Duca di Bracciano, where the beautiful and proud Vanina captures everyone's attention. Amidst the festivities, we learn of her disdain for Roman society and her troubled relationship with her father, Prince Hasdrubal Vanini, who desires her to marry a prestigious suitor. Vanina's fascination with a wounded young Carbonaro, who has escaped from prison, leads her into a deep emotional conflict, particularly as she discovers secret ties between her family and the world of political rebellion. The narrative sets the stage for an exploration of love's tumultuous nature and the social constraints that challenge personal desires.
Maurice Barrès
Der Mord an der Jungfrau
"Der Mord an der Jungfrau" by Maurice Barrès is a historical novel written during the early 20th century. The book explores themes of love, spirituality, and societal conflict through its depiction of ancient Roman and early Christian tensions, particularly focusing on the character of Athene and her struggle between the allure of Hellenistic ideals and the rising influence of Christianity. The story unfolds in a richly described setting, where characters like Amaryllis, a young courtesan, and Lucius, a Roman, navigate personal desires and social upheaval. Athene, depicted as a representation of Hellenistic culture, faces imminent danger from a volatile populace as the decline of traditional values becomes palpable. The narrative captures her final moments of defiance against the encroaching Christian fanatics who threaten to obliterate the remnants of beauty and intellect of ancient beliefs. Ultimately, the book culminates in a tragic but poignant martyrdom, illuminating the clash between love, faith, and cultural identity. As Athene sacrifices herself, her legacy reverberates through the generations, setting the stage for reflection on the price of ideals in a changing world.
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